RSPCA Assured announces new RSPCA welfare standards for hatcheries

The new version of the standards comes into effect from 16 February 2026, following the standard three-month notification period. There are a number of new standards designed to support producers and progress chick welfare. Key changes include:

• Improved requirements for culling, aligned with the latest Humane Slaughter Association guidance
• Plans to prevent the killing of healthy, viable birds
• Improved chick handling measures, including posture, stability, recovery and limits on overcrowding
• New emergency planning requirements for fires, floods, power loss and more
• Improved training requirements for staff
• Introduction of a written Wild Animal Control Plan (WACP) that prioritises humane methods and protects non-target species
• Clearer expectations for the use of new technologies, such as in-ovo vaccination and artificial intelligence
• Permission is now required for sea, air, or rail transport with clear welfare plans.

RSPCA Assured assistant director of certification, Neil Scott, says: “Thanks to the ongoing commitment of our members, we are able to bring in new updates that further protect and improve the lives of chicks.

“We hope this latest edition of the hatchery standards will help our members to continue on their higher-welfare journey and support them in delivering the best possible welfare at every stage of farmed animals' lives.”

New, potential or existing RSPCA Assured members who need support or advice about meeting the updated hatchery standards should contact RSPCA Assured’s farming and technical engagement team.

Find out more and view the updated hatchery standards here and on the RSPCA website.